The Position PaperThe Basics:
The paper should be typed and 6-10 pages long including a works cited page. Each page less
than the minimum (6 pages) will lose 10 points per page.
Submit your paper to any plagiarism checking website before submitting your final version to
Turnitin.com as well before grading your paper, SO please make sure your paper is free of
plagiarism!
The paper is due no later than December 16 by 11:59 pm.
Papers will be evaluated using the grading rubric below (page 3). 100 total points.
1. A summary of your argument that incorporates the following criteria.
Title (this should be your issue framed as a question.)
An introductory paragraph with explanation of the controversy, relevant
background information to give context of the problem, and your
thesis/conclusion (answer to the issue with qualifiers).
Body paragraphs that contain your reasoning and research in support of your
thesis/conclusion.
A block quote OR a visual representation – picture, graph (with proper citation)
In text citations of at least five reputable sources using MLA format.
2. In addition, your paper must include the following.
Acknowledgement and explanation of the opposition’s argument
(counterarguments)
A rebuttal that addresses the main points of the opposition’s argument
(concession or refutation)
A concluding paragraph that provides closure to your argument. You should
include possible limitations of your conclusion and/or the conditions under
which you might reconsider your conclusion (thesis), and possible next steps to
consider regarding this issue. You can also provide a general warning of the
consequences of not following the premise that you put forward, how the
community will benefit from following that premise, and other solutions that
could rectify the issue.
3. A final page should list the resources that are cited in your paper.
MLA style reference page listing credible sources cited in the paper. Avoid
(.com, weak journalism sites such as biased newspapers, etc.)
Writing Choices: You may choose any issue from the list below; all are relevant to today’s society.
1. Should Covid-19 vaccines be required for all students entering public schools?
2. Should a college education be available to all people for free?
3. Should all new homes require solar power?
4. Should electric vehicles be mandatory for all new car purchases?
5. Should the government be allowed to monitor all internet activity?
6. Does the government have an obligation to provide free healthcare for its citizens?
7. Should all drugs be legalized in the United States?
8. Does the U.S. have an obligation to help third world countries?
9. Should the voting age be lowered?
10. Should public education be reformed?
11. Should children use smartphones?
